Mavericks Secure Klay Thompson in Bold Offseason Move

The Dallas Mavericks are not resting on their laurels after an NBA Finals appearance. They’ve successfully acquired four-time champion Klay Thompson, who left the Golden State Warriors despite efforts from LeBron James to recruit him to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Thompson’s Deal

According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Thompson joins the Mavericks on a three-year, $50 million contract via a sign-and-trade deal involving the Warriors and Charlotte Hornets. In this transaction, Josh Green will go to Charlotte, while two second-round picks head to Golden State.

Thompson’s Impact

Thompson, who averaged 17.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists last season, had to agree to a contract of at least three years to be eligible for the sign-and-trade. Though he signed for less than expected, the favorable tax situation in Texas and Dallas’ strong championship prospects played significant roles in his decision.

Recruitment Battle

The Lakers were a strong contender for Thompson, partly due to his father’s history with the organization and his current role as a radio broadcaster. However, after a first-round playoff exit, the Lakers were less appealing compared to the Mavericks, who offered a better chance at a fifth championship for Thompson.

Kyrie Irving also played a crucial role in recruiting Thompson, meeting with him in Los Angeles to pique his interest. Irving’s history of input in roster decisions and his past NBA Finals duels with Thompson added weight to his recruitment efforts.

Roster Adjustments

The Mavericks’ recruitment of Thompson influenced Derrick Jones Jr.’s decision to join the LA Clippers on a three-year, $30 million deal after Paul George’s departure. The Mavericks, prepared for such outcomes, secured Naji Marshall on a three-year, $27 million contract as a contingency plan.

To facilitate Thompson’s acquisition, the Mavericks moved Tim Hardaway Jr.’s contract to the Detroit Pistons, attaching three second-round picks. This maneuver unlocked the $12.9 million non-taxpayer mid-level exception and brought back Quentin Grimes, replacing Green.

Strengthening the Roster

With Thompson, Marshall, and Grimes on board, the Mavericks continue to build around Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. The roster upgrade began with acquiring Dereck Lively II in last year’s draft and continued with midseason additions of P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford.

Thompson, though no longer in his defensive prime, remains a dynamic shooting threat, commanding respect from defenses. His addition addresses the shooting struggles Dallas faced in the Finals against the Boston Celtics and enhances their offensive options alongside Doncic and Irving.

Outlook

At 34, Thompson’s presence is expected to have a positive impact, especially playing next to Doncic, one of the NBA’s most electrifying playmakers, and Irving, who also demands significant defensive attention. The key concern remains his defensive contribution moving forward.

Stay tuned to MavericksGameday for comprehensive coverage of the Dallas Mavericks throughout the NBA offseason and updates on Luka Doncic at the pre-Olympic qualifier tournament in Greece.